NORTH MANCHESTER -- Although the morning of Sept. 19 began with overcast skies and drizzling rain, dedicated runners and walkers braved the weather to support the 5th Annual Feel the Learn 5K Run/Walk.

In addition, local children ran six blocks around the Town Life Center in the Kids Fun Run.

CULVER -- Continuing their stellar seasons, the Manchester High School cross country teams both advanced to regional this weekend.

The girls' team finished in second place, while the boys' team crossed the finish line in fourth place.

"The culture has changed," Manchester coach Jody Sarber said. "The group of kids we have are very inexperienced by most measures. We have many freshmen on our varsity rosters as well as two boys and two girls who are first time cross country runners. Despite that, this year's group works very hard, is very positive, and wants to succeed.

"We are successful as a team with one front runner and one tight pack for both the boys and girls," he added. "Everyone raced well Saturday, and if one kid had an off day, another stepped up and helped out."

The Manchester Squire football team not only won its first game of the season, but defeated traditional Three Rivers Conference power Rochester for the first time since 2002 with a 34-14 win over the Zebras.

Manchester took control early when Jared Gable scored on the Squires' first possession of the game with a touchdown run with 8:49 left in the first quarter for a 7-0 lead.

Rochester threatened to score early in the second quarter with the ball on the Squires' 8-yard line, but Manchester stopped the Zebras on fourth and two to get the ball back.

MARION -- The Northfield Girls’ Cross Country Team placed third in the 11-team Marion Sectional on Saturday.

The Lady Norse will advance to the IHSAA Regional next Saturday. Olivia Thompson led the way with Natasha Leland two spots back. The rest of the pack included Abbey Ross, Liz Moore, Michelle Hunt, Bailey Burcroff and Attie Schuler.